The Gentle Fist style of combat is based on palm strikes and generally aims to damage the body's Chakra Pathway System, thus creating difficulty by inhibiting an opponent's use of chakra. To do this, the user will forcefully insert a small amount of their own chakra into an opponent's chakra pathway system. The chakra can then be used to rupture or divert chakra flow, preventing them from using jutsu. It was also commented by Neji Hyūga that any chakra-based substance can be destroyed by putting chakra in it with his Gentle Fist. Also, as noted by Kidōmaru, this is done by using the chakra openings in one's hands to reform chakra into a needle-like shape to cut through chakra. It is unknown if this can be done by any Gentle Fist user or just those who see the tenketsu. It can also be used to attack the opponent's internal organs, to which the chakra pathway system is closely tied. Even the slightest tap from this style can cause major damage, hence the name "gentle fist." Because the chakra pathway system is invisible, the Byakugan is required for this style to be used effectively. Since the Byakugan is unique to the Hyūga clan, it has become their signature style of combat.
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