The biggest single problem I have right now with my Taiji is relaxing my shoulders when my arms are extended. I think it stems from the fact that I also do a Southern Shaolin style where the shoulder muscles are used extensively.

Does anyone have any ideas on how to relax the shoulder when the arms are extended?

Also, because I do two styles I need to be able to switch between doing it with shoulder and without. Are there any prepatory excercises you guys do to relax the shoulders?