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Imagery

(Science: psychology) a cognitive-behavioural strategy that uses mental images produced by the imagination as a form of psychotherapy as an aid to relaxation.

It can be classified by the modality of its content: visual, verbal, auditory, olfactory, tactile, gustatory, or kinesthetic.

Common themes derive from nature imagery (e.g., forests and mountains), water imagery (e.g., brooks and oceans), travel imagery, etc. Imagery is used in the treatment of mental disorders and in helping patients cope with other diseases.

imagery often forms a part of hypnosis, of autogenic training, of relaxation techniques, and of behaviour therapy.