Yin Release

is one of the two nature transformations that exist outside of the elemental circle, along with Yang Release. It is based on the spiritual energy that governs imagination and is created by altering the ratio of spiritual and physical energy in favour of the former.

Yin Release can create form out of nothingness and when combined with Yang Release, it allows for the use of Yin–Yang Release. Yin is depicted as black in the manga and red in the anime. The Six Paths Yin Power is represented by a crescent moon marking on the wielder's left palm.

Although Yin was first mentioned in name by Yamato during Naruto Uzumaki's nature transformation training, it was earlier hinted at during Shikamaru Nara's fight with Tayuya. He noticed that Tayuya's spirits consisted of much spiritual energy and little physical energy, and noted that she, like himself, made use of special chakra in battle. It was later confirmed that the Nara clan utilises Yin Release in their shadow techniques. According to the Second Mizukage, genjutsu falls under the broad category of Yin Release as well. Being descendants of the Sage of Six Paths through his elder son, the Uchiha clan predominantly inherited Yin Release.

Yin chakra is also part of the tailed beasts' chakra. During the Nine-Tails' attack on Konoha, Minato Namikaze used the Dead Demon Consuming Seal to seal the Yin half of the fox's chakra within himself. After being reincarnated by Orochimaru, Minato was then able to use the Nine-Tails Chakra Mode.

Yin Release can be used offensively when combined with senjutsu. However, it is unknown what exact role the Yin Release fulfils in said technique.

Trivia

 * Although not explicitely stated to be Yin Release, techniques like Mind Body Switch Technique and Yin Healing Wound Destruction, as well as Tsunade's Yin Seal are connected to spiritual energy and Yin, either by name or by function.