Definition & Meaning of "keep body and soul together"in English

What is the origin of the idiom "keep body and soul together" and when to use it?

The origin of the phrase "keep body and soul together" can be traced back to the 16th century. It is believed to have been inspired by the idea that "body" and "soul" represent the physical and spiritual aspects of a person, respectively. This idiom is used to describe the act of surviving or maintaining one's existence, especially under challenging circumstances.