Has anyone actually tried Tim Ferriss's comfort challenges?

I'm currently listening to the Four Hour Work Week. In it, Tim Ferriss suggests a series of 'comfort challenges' as a way to get more 'comfortable with discomfort':

1. Eye-gazing

Force yourself to maintain eye contact when you are speaking - especially with peopler bigger / more confident than you.

2. Asking for phone numbers

Ask attractive members of the opposite sex for phone numbers. The outcome isn't important, just get over the fear of asking.

3. Relaxing in public

Lie down in a public place (a busy pavement, a Starbucks) for 10 seconds, then get up and carry on with what you are doing. Don't explain it to anyone.

I imagine quite a few IHers have read / listened to this book. But did anyone follow through and try these exercises? If so, did you find that they helped you professionally (or personally) at all?