Everything to know about Demon Slayer’s Breathing Styles

It’s not an exaggeration to say that the fate of the entire universe of Demon Slayer rests upon the shoulder of the titular corps. They are, after all, humanity’s final defense against Muzan and his minions. In order to match the demons’ supernatural abilities and monstrous physiques, the Demon Slayers rely on Breathing Styles to reach superhuman fighting abilities.

Interestingly, the series showcases multiple Breathing Styles. Each one offers unique techniques and forms inspired by various elements of nature. Here’s everything you need to know about these techniques.

What are Breathing Styles?

Each Demon Slayer is trained to utilize a Breathing Technique called Total Concentration Breathing. By maximizing the oxygen intake, Total Concentration Breathing allows Demon Slayers to maximize their muscles’ capabilities and boost their physical abilities. The stronger members of the troop — like the Hashira and Tanjiro — can utilize Total Concentration Breathing throughout the entire day, even when they are asleep. Doing this not only allows a Demon Slayer to jump into battle at any time, but it also helps train their bodies.

Furthermore, most Demon Slayers utilize Total Concentration Breathing in their specialized swordsmanship known as Breathing Styles. These techniques are based on different patterns of controlled breathing, which enhance the user’s strength, speed, agility, and endurance.

What are the different Breathing Styles?

Sun Breathing is considered the original and most powerful Breathing Style, created by Yoriichi Tsugikuni, the most skilled Demon Slayer in history. Interestingly, it was passed down by the Kamado Family as a ceremonial dance called Hinokami Kagura.

Despite being the strongest Breathing Style, only Tanjiro and Yoriichi could utilize Sun Breathing to fight demons. No other Demon Slayer could master the style, even if they were mentored by Yoriichi himself. As such, Yoriichi had to create derivatives of Sun Breathing and pass them down to his students. This results in the creation of the main branches of Sun Breathing: Water Breathing, Flame Breathing, Wind Breathing, Thunder Breathing, and Earth Breathing.

These derived Breathing Styles have further branches developed by other Demon Slayers to suit their unique combat preferences and abilities. For example, Uzui Tengen’s Sound Breathing (derived from Thunder Breathing) focuses on creating explosive attacks, while Mitsuri Kanroji’s Love Breathing (a derivative of Flame Breathing) emphasizes graceful and flexible techniques. Other known Breathing Styles are Moon Breathing, Flower Breathing, Insect Breathing, Serpent Breathing, Beast Breathing, and Mist Breathing.