Monday, October 8, 2018

With Proper Pacing, a Stellar Golden State Warriors Season Predicted


A physician in Carmel, California, Dr. Gregory Tapson maintains a well-established private practice and engages with the Cypress Ridge Care Center as medical director. Dr. Gregory Tapson is a longtime fan of the San Francisco 49ers and the Golden State Warriors, who achieved their second championship title in three years in 2018. A recent ESPN article projected that the Warriors will continue to reign supreme in the coming year, with 58.6 wins predicted. 

With Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry presenting a unique perimeter and inside-the-paint offensive threat, much of how the team will perform depends on their health. Curry, in particular, has been susceptible to injury, and will need to pace himself as a grueling season progresses and contenders such as the Utah Jazz and the James Harden-driven Houston Rockets seek payback. 

One advantage the veteran Warriors possess is the ability to not worry about stats and conserve energy for crunch time. Even if this means that the team appears vulnerable and does not catch fire during the regular season, it ensures an explosive performance in the playoffs, when it counts.

Monday, October 1, 2018

Preparing for the ABFM Exam with AAFP Prep Questions


Dr. Gregory Tapson has spent 22 years as the owner and lead physician at a private medical practice in Carmel, California. In addition to his work at the practice, Dr. Gregory Tapson spends time engaging with a number of professional organizations, including the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP).

AAFP represents the interests of nearly one-quarter of a million family physicians, residents, and students throughout the nation. AAFP members enjoy a number of unique benefits, including opportunities to prepare for the ABFM family medicine certification examination with carefully prepared test questions. The board review program includes multiple-choice questions and mixed-review prompts, both of which are featured on the actual exam.

While students and residents can use board review questions to prepare for the certification exam, they are not the only groups who can benefit from the service. Certified medical professionals who complete board review questions may be eligible to receive up to 34 prescribed continuing medical education credits. Board review questions are provided to AAFP members free of charge. To learn more about the program or AAFP membership, visit www.aafp.org.

Monday, September 24, 2018

Hiking Destinations in the Carmel, California, Area


Dr. Gregory Tapson established his Carmel, California, medical practice in 1996 and continues to oversee all patient and office activities. When he is not seeing to the personalized care of as many as 100 patients per month, Dr. Gregory Tapson enjoys leading an active lifestyle. He frequently exercises and enjoys hiking and golfing throughout the Carmel area.

Hiking enthusiasts living in and around Carmel do not have to travel far for an enjoyable outing. The Carmel River Beach Trail, for example, makes for an ideal outing for hikers in search of a relaxing, scenic journey. The one-mile trail travels between the Pacific Ocean and a number of stunning views of Carmel Point and Point Lobos. The trail is replete with picnic tables and other areas perfect for a meal or short rest before resuming the hike.

Mission Trail Park offers a more comprehensive, diverse hiking experience. With more than five miles of trails and 35 acres of nature to explore, Mission Trail Park allows hikers to get up close and personal with the region’s historic redwoods, not to mention impressive stands of oaks, pines, and eucalyptus. Mission Trail Park is also home to the Lester Rowntree Native Plant Garden and the historic Flanders Mansion, built in 1924.

Additional trails in the Carmel and Monterey region include those at Toro Park, Jacks Peak County Park, and Point Lobos State Reserve.

Saturday, September 15, 2018

How Parents Can Support Their Children in Sports


Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Health Benefits of Early Morning Exercise


Carmel, California physician Dr. Gregory Tapson has provided personable patient care at his private practice for more than two decades. Outside of work, Dr. Gregory Tapson stays active by engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking and golf. He also maintains a daily morning exercise routine. 

While exercise at any time of day has positive health effects, there are several biological advantages to starting a workout routine in the early hours of the day. Below are some of the most notable benefits of working out in the morning.

Metabolic Boost - The calorie-burning effect of exercise continues long after the workout is over. One study found that up to 190 additional calories are burned up to 14 hours after a round of vigorous exercise. As a result, consumed calories are more likely to be burned throughout the day rather than stored as fat.

More Regular Routine - Scheduling workouts in the morning reduces the likelihood of events or other distractions disrupting the routine. Once the body adapts to waking up early and exercising, it becomes even easier to maintain a routine.

Increased Productivity - Exercising releases endorphins, which enhance mental clarity and elevate mood, two factors that impact cognitive function. Working out in the morning also leads to higher sleep quality, which again improves productivity throughout the day.

Thursday, August 9, 2018

Membership Benefits at AAFP


Gregory Tapson received his medical degree from the University of Southern California School of Medicine, and has now practiced family medicine for more than two decades. Dr. Gregory Tapson currently serves as a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians.

Transformed health care for patients’ optimum health stands as the goal of the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). The national organization consists of over 130,000 members from the United States and all over the world. Memberships at AAFP are categorized as follows:

Active membership. Active members of the AAFP receive the support necessary to building and sustain their practices and provide quality patient care. They receive access to resources, tools, discounts, live courses, and member interest groups.

Resident membership. AAFP’s resident member gets access to information on family residency programs as well as fellowships. Other benefits include access to board review practice questions, use of clinical and career resources and tools, and connection with member interest groups.

International membership. An AAFP international member benefits from the organization through quality education resources. Whether a teacher or a practitioner of family medicine abroad, an international member gets opportunities to network with colleagues worldwide. Although not allowed to hold any position in the association, he or she can exercise his or her rights in reference committees.

Thursday, July 26, 2018

Dos and Don’ts of Songwriting


A self-employed physician, Gregory Tapson serves as a primary care doctor in California. In this capacity, he serves as the medical director of a local nursing facility, sees patients at a local retirement community, and provides concierge services to patients who want them. In his free time, Gregory Tapson enjoys writing and singing classic rock and blues-style songs.

Below are several dos and don’ts when it comes to writing songs:

Don’t ignore emotion
Regardless of how catchy and emotional a song’s hook is, writers must be sure that there is plenty of emotion in the rest of the song. The lyrics must be sincere and genuine, otherwise they won’t connect with the average listener.

Do know the genre
The genre of a song influences the lyrics that are used. For example, many pop songs rhyme, while other genres don’t. These standards play a huge role in how successful a song is. Songs written for the wrong genre are typically unpopular among most people.

Don’t rely on a chord progression
Melody and lyrics are the most important aspects of a successful song. As writers create music, it’s not enough to have just a great groove to their music. They also need compelling lyrics and melody to keep listeners around in the long-term.

Do keep writing
All writers experience writer’s block at some point, but this doesn't stop them. The same is true for songwriters. Anytime songwriters experience writer’s block or have a flop, they must keep writing regularly, even when they aren’t inspired.

Wednesday, July 11, 2018

Eric Clapton’s Early Kinship With 1930s Blues Legend Robert Johnson


A well-established Carmel, California, private physician, Gregory Tapson, MD, provides patient-centered primary care. Dr. Gregory Tapson is also passionate about writing and recording music and enjoys creating songs in the classic rock and blues genres.

Interviewed by NPR a decade ago, British rock stalwart Eric Clapton drew attention to the blues roots of his musical identity. With 1950s influences including Muddy Waters, Big Bill Broonzy, and Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee, Clapton delved into his fascination with 1930s bluesman Robert Johnson in his autobiography.

Having recently acquired his first electric guitar and lacking an amplifier, the teenage Clapton found in Johnson an intensity that “almost repelled me.” He was transfixed by the raw pain expressed in songs such as Hellhound on My Trail, as well as the “beauty and eloquence" of Kindhearted Woman.

Another area of connection was Johnson’s legendary shyness, such that he faced the corner of the room while auditioning songs at a San Antonio hotel room. Having experienced paralyzing shyness himself, Eric Clapton found this an area of kinship spanning generations. Clapton’s major issue with Johnson was that he found it impossible to simultaneously play middle string rhythm, treble string lead, and disjointed bass line.

Saturday, June 30, 2018

Joey Bart Highlights Giants 2018 MLB Amateur Draft Class


The recipient of a doctor of medicine degree from the University of Southern California, Dr. Gregory Tapson operates a private primary care practice and serves as medical director of Cypress Ridge Skilled Nursing Facility. An avid sports fan, Gregory Tapson counts the San Francisco Giants as his favorite Major League Baseball (MLB) team. 

The 2018 MLB Amateur Draft began on June 4 and the Giants held the second overall pick for the second time in franchise history and first time in 33 years. The team used the pick to select Georgia Tech catcher Joey Bart, who is regarded as an all-around player with strong defensive and offensive capabilities. He led the Atlantic Coast Conference in batting average (.359) and finished second in slugging percentage (.632) last season. He also hit 16 home runs and drove in 38 runs. Although he struck out 56 times, he drew 25 more walks than the season prior and improved his on-base percentage from .370 to .471. The Giants have picked four players in the top five of the draft, and all of them have gone on to achieve All-Star status in their careers.

With its second pick in the draft, the Giants added Sean Hjelle out of the University of Kentucky. The 6-foot-11 right-handed pitcher, who registered a 3.44 earned run average and struck out 91 batters in 99 and one-third innings last season, was named Southeastern Conference Pitcher of the Year in 2017. Pitchers Jake Wong, Blake Rivera, and Keaton Winn rounded out the team's top five picks in the 40-round draft.

Friday, June 15, 2018

Tips for Lowering Cholesterol


Family practice physician Dr. Gregory Tapson has operated a private practice in Carmel, California, since 1996. Providing annual checkups and preventive healthcare, physicians like Dr. Gregory Tapson strive to lower the risks of cardiovascular disease by keeping track of patients’ cholesterol levels through blood work. 

When lab work reveals heightened cholesterol levels, physicians can prescribe medicine, or dietary and lifestyle changes. For those wishing to avoid medication, or for those who wish to enhance its effects, the Mayo Clinic encourages heart-healthy meal choices such as increased fiber intake and healthy fats, along with reduced consumption of saturated fats. Other food items that promote heart health include bright-colored vegetables and fruits, which contain cholesterol-inhibiting molecules in addition to fiber. 

It is also recommended that those concerned about cholesterol increase physical activity, especially cardiovascular exercise. Brisk walks can help lower unhealthy cholesterol levels. 

If you have questions about your heart health and cholesterol, make an appointment with your physician.

Thursday, May 31, 2018

Three Offseason Acquisitions by the San Francisco Giants


A summa cum laude graduate of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Gregory Tapson earned his doctor of medicine at the University of Southern California and, since 1996, has managed a Carmel, California-based private practice. Outside of his professional pursuits, Dr. Gregory Tapson is a passionate fan of Major League Baseball's San Francisco Giants.

In an effort to improve its roster following a disastrous season in which it posted a win-loss record of 64-98, the Giants made a number of high-profile trades and signings in the most recent offseason. 

1. Andrew McCutchen - A five-time All-Star, McCutchen was acquired by the Giants from the Pittsburgh Pirates in January in exchange for right-handed pitcher Kyle Crick, minor league prospect Bryan Reynolds, and $500,000 toward Pittsburgh's international signing bonus allocation. Through 45 games this season, the 2013 National League MVP has three home runs, 19 runs batted in (RBI), and a .248 batting average.

2. Evan Longoria - In December, the Giants acquired power-hitting third baseman Evan Longoria from the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for center fielder Denard Span and top prospects Christian Arroyo, Matt Krook, and Stephen Woods. A three-time All-Star, Longoria has played more games over the past five seasons than any other player in MLB. The 32 year old has eight home runs, 23 RBI, and a .256 batting average through 46 games with his new team.

3. Austin Jackson - The Giants rounded out its outfield in January by signing eight-year veteran Austin Jackson to a two-year, $6 million contract. He has 12 RBI and a .248 batting average through 36 games this season.

Tuesday, May 15, 2018

AAFP Looks after Family Doctors with New Initiative