Would you say Buddhism involves a lessening of the emotions?
Not at all, being mindful is to experience the emotions. Sometimes some people can be less reactive to their emotions, but they are not suppressed. I personally believe that the idea of dulling the emotions is a trap that those new to eastern philosophy will fall into (I certainly have), and it can be hard to get out of. I came upon Buddhism at a time when I was dulling myself to cope with what was going on around me. Experience your emotions, both the happy and sad. Overtime you will gain power over them and they will not control you. " The mind is very difficult to see, very delicate and subtle; it moves and lands wherever it pleases. The wise one should guard his mind, for a guarded mind brings happiness." Dhammapada Verse 327
