Is there a morality aspect in mindfulness?

Hey Kelvin, thanks for posting this question, and it's a great question. :)

Without going back to the spiritual roots of mindfulness, there is a morality aspect in secular teachings of mindfulness. By morality, I mean self-restraint from unwholesome conduct, which is crucial for proper progress in our practice. While this self-restraint is not explicitly expounded in modern mindfulness-based programs, it is facilitated through practice and reflection. This includes looking into our way of life and understanding how wholesome behaviours support our wellbeing, and how unwholesome behaviours do the opposite. Looking inward to observe the mind and body, we also gain insight into the effects of wholesome and unwholesome thought and intention on both the individual and the collective. With such insight comes a natural desire and motivation to adjust and regulate ourselves. This ability to restrain and regulate ourselves in turn supports us in meditating better.

Also, I see that the simple act of sitting is by itself a form of self-restraint, because as we sit we are not engaging in unwholesome conduct!

Feel free to share any further thoughts. :)